Parts of a Tree, Use These Tree Parts to Identify a Tree

By Steve Nix, About.com Guide

A leaf can either be simple (no extra leaflets) or compound (three or more leaflets). This leaf structure is always a help with tree identification because of each tree species' leaf structure.

On a simple leaf, the leaf blade is singly attached to a twig or twig stem. On a compound leaf, all leaflets are attached to a single leafstem or rachis.

Compound leaves can be confusing because of the many variations of leaf structure. The major differences are palmate leaves, leaflets or lobes that grow from a leafstem in the manner of a hand. Pinnate leaves grow leaflets on opposite sides of a leafstem.

There are also leaves that have double compound or twice-compound leaflets.

Previous

• Using Major Botanical Parts to Identify a Tree
• Parts of a Tree, Use Leaf Shape to Identify a Tree
• Parts of a Tree, Use Leaf Structure to Identify a Tree
• Parts of a Tree, Use the Flower, Cone and Fruit to Identify a Tree
• Parts of a Tree, Use a Twig to Identify a Tree
• Parts of a Tree, Use Bark to Identify a Tree
• Parts of a Tree, Use Shape or Silhouette to Identify a Tree

Next